Digital Marketing Speakers
Your event date is creeping up, the schedule is filling fast, and you're still hunting for someone who actually knows how to talk digital marketing without sounding like a sales pitch.
You've probably typed 'digital marketing speaker' into Google a dozen times already. But how do you know who's actually good on stage or in front of a mic?
Digital marketing speakers should do more than talk trends. The best ones connect with the audience, explain real strategies, and bring useful, current insights to the table.
Whether you're hosting a podcast, planning a summit, or running a YouTube show, the right speaker can make your session feel fresh and valuable.
I've seen how a sharp, no-fluff speaker can shift the energy in a room or hook a listener in seconds.
This list highlights digital marketing speakers who know their stuff and know how to share it.
Scroll down, explore the lineup, and get someone booked who'll actually deliver.
Top Digital Marketing Speakers List for 2025
Misty Kortes
Ditch the 9-5. Build freedom. Make money. Live now.
Douglas Karr
Demystify the digital world of Marketing, AI, and technology, with a few laughs along the way.
Sarah Thorslund
Co-founder at Entrepreneurs HQ & Talks.co, I love helping business owners attract more of their ideal clients!
Leisa Reid
I train Coaches & Entrepreneurs how to use speaking to attract their ideal clients
Andrew Jenkins
Social Media Agency Owner, Author, University Instructor, Keynote Speaker and Podcast Host
Katya Allison
Marketing Decoded: Expert Insights, Techniques, and Strategies
Ben Jones
Helping service-based businesses scale with YouTube ads and smart systems.
What Makes a Great Digital Marketing Speaker
Take someone like Neil Patel. He doesn't just talk about SEO - he tells you how a single tweak to your content strategy can double your traffic, and he backs it up with data and relatable examples. Great digital marketing speakers blend credibility with charisma. They've done the work, seen the trends, and know how to make their insights stick.
But it's not just about knowledge. Delivery matters. A great speaker reads the room - whether it's a virtual summit or a live event in Singapore - and adapts their energy accordingly. They know when to pause, when to push, and when to pivot. They make you feel like they're talking directly to you, even if there are 1,000 people watching.
And then there's relevance. The best digital marketing speakers aren't stuck in 2015 tactics. They're current. They're talking about AI-driven funnels, TikTok conversion strategies, or how email marketing is evolving in a privacy-first world. They're not just teaching - they're forecasting.
So if you're looking for a great digital marketing speaker, look for someone who can educate, entertain, and elevate the conversation. It's that rare mix of insight, energy, and empathy that sets them apart.
How to Select the Best Digital Marketing Speaker for Your Show
1. Define Your Audience and Goals
- Know who you're serving. Are your listeners small business owners? SaaS founders? Marketing students? The speaker's tone and content should match.
- Clarify your outcome. Do you want to inspire, educate, or spark debate? A tactical speaker like Rand Fishkin might be great for education, while someone like Ann Handley could bring storytelling flair.
2. Research Speaker Profiles
- Use platforms like Talks.co to browse speaker pages. Look for past talks, testimonials, and topic areas.
- Check their social presence. Are they active on LinkedIn or YouTube? Do they engage with their audience?
3. Watch or Listen to Past Talks
- Look for energy and clarity. Can they explain complex ideas simply?
- Check for audience engagement. Were people asking questions, sharing the talk, or quoting them?
4. Match the Format
- Virtual vs. in-person. Some speakers shine on stage, others thrive on Zoom.
- Panel vs. solo. Not everyone is great in a panel format. Make sure they're comfortable with your setup.
5. Reach Out Strategically
- Personalize your pitch. Mention why you think they're a fit.
- Use a connector. If you're using Talks.co, you can message directly or get introduced by a mutual contact.
Selecting the right speaker is part art, part science - but when you get it right, your audience will thank you.
How to Book a Digital Marketing Speaker
1. Start with a Shortlist
- Use platforms like Talks.co to explore vetted digital marketing speakers.
- Filter by topic, region, or availability. For example, if you're hosting a summit on eCommerce funnels, search for speakers who specialize in conversion optimization.
2. Review Their Speaker Page
- Look for key details: speaking topics, previous events, audience types, and testimonials.
- Watch embedded videos or listen to podcast clips to get a feel for their delivery style.
3. Reach Out with a Clear Ask
- Use the contact form or direct message feature on Talks.co.
- Include the event date, audience size, format (virtual or in-person), and what you're hoping they'll cover.
4. Discuss Fees and Logistics
- Be upfront about your budget. Some speakers charge a fee, others speak for exposure or lead generation.
- Clarify tech requirements, time zones, and promotional expectations (e.g., will they share the event with their list?).
5. Confirm with a Simple Agreement
- Even if it's informal, send a written confirmation with all the details: date, time, topic, platform link, and any deliverables.
- If you're using Talks.co, many of these steps are built into the booking flow, making it easier to stay organized.
6. Prep and Promote
- Share a speaker kit or event brief so they know what to expect.
- Promote their appearance on your channels - and tag them to encourage resharing.
Booking a speaker is more than just locking in a date - it's about setting them (and your audience) up for success.
Common Questions on Digital Marketing Speakers
What is a digital marketing speaker
They typically speak at conferences, webinars, podcasts, or summits, helping audiences understand how to grow their business or brand in the digital space. Unlike general marketing speakers, digital marketing speakers focus specifically on internet-based channels and tools.
What sets them apart is their ability to translate technical concepts into actionable advice. For example, a speaker might explain how Google's latest algorithm update affects your blog traffic - and what to do about it. Or they might break down how to build a high-converting sales funnel using Facebook ads.
Many digital marketing speakers are also practitioners. They run agencies, lead marketing teams, or consult for brands. This real-world experience adds depth to their talks, making them more than just theory-based.
In short, a digital marketing speaker is both an educator and a strategist - someone who helps others navigate the fast-changing world of online marketing through engaging, informative speaking engagements.
Why is a digital marketing speaker important
They bridge the gap between theory and execution. While blog posts and YouTube tutorials are helpful, a speaker distills what matters most - and tailors it to your audience. Whether you're running a startup in Nairobi or a mid-sized agency in Toronto, a good speaker helps you focus on what actually works.
They keep you current. The digital landscape shifts fast. What worked on Instagram last year might be obsolete today. Digital marketing speakers often attend industry events, test new tools, and analyze trends - so they can bring fresh, relevant insights to your stage or screen.
They inspire action. It's not just about learning - it's about doing. A compelling speaker doesn't just inform; they motivate. They give your audience the confidence to try that new email sequence or finally launch that YouTube channel.
They add credibility to your event. Booking a respected digital marketing speaker can elevate your brand. It signals that your event is serious about delivering value, whether it's a local meetup or a global virtual summit.
In essence, a digital marketing speaker isn't just a nice-to-have - they're a strategic asset for any event or platform that wants to stay relevant, insightful, and impactful.
What do digital marketing speakers do
1. Share Expert Knowledge
They present on topics like:
- SEO and content strategy
- Paid advertising (Google Ads, Meta, TikTok)
- Email marketing and automation
- Analytics and data interpretation
- Funnel building and CRO (conversion rate optimization)
2. Tailor Content to the Audience
Whether speaking to eCommerce founders, SaaS marketers, or nonprofit teams, they adapt their message to be relevant and accessible. A speaker at a startup accelerator in Berlin might focus on growth hacking, while one at a corporate event in New York might dive into enterprise-level MarTech stacks.
3. Inspire and Motivate
They don't just teach - they energize. A great digital marketing speaker leaves the audience with not just notes, but a sense of urgency and excitement to implement what they've learned.
4. Represent Brands or Themselves
Some speakers are independent consultants, while others represent companies like HubSpot, Moz, or Mailchimp. Their talks often reflect their unique perspective or the tools they specialize in.
5. Engage Across Formats
They speak at:
- Virtual summits (like those hosted on Zoom)
- Podcasts and webinars
- In-person conferences and workshops
- Internal corporate trainings
In short, digital marketing speakers are educators, strategists, and communicators rolled into one - helping audiences stay sharp in a constantly shifting digital world.
How to become a digital marketing speaker
1. Define Your Niche
- Digital marketing is a wide field. Are you an SEO wizard? A paid ads strategist? A content marketing guru? Pick a lane that aligns with your strengths.
- Tip: The more specific your niche, the easier it is for event organizers to know where you fit.
2. Build Your Speaker Page
- Create a dedicated page on your website (or use a platform like Talks.co) that includes your bio, talk topics, testimonials, and a high-quality headshot.
- Include a short speaker reel or video clip of you presenting, even if it's from a webinar or podcast.
3. Craft Signature Talks
- Develop 1-3 signature presentations that solve real problems. For example: 'How to Scale Facebook Ads Without Burning Your Budget' or 'The Future of AI in Content Marketing'.
- Make sure your titles are benefit-driven and easy to understand.
4. Start Small, Then Scale
- Begin with local meetups, webinars, or virtual summits. Talks.co is a great place to connect with hosts looking for speakers.
- Reach out to podcast hosts, LinkedIn Live creators, or niche YouTube channels to get your voice out there.
5. Network with Event Organizers
- Attend industry events and introduce yourself to organizers. Follow them on LinkedIn and engage with their content.
- Use platforms like SpeakerHub, Talks.co, and even LinkedIn to pitch yourself with a clear value proposition.
6. Collect Feedback and Testimonials
- After each talk, ask for feedback and testimonials. These build your credibility and help you refine your delivery.
7. Keep Improving
- Watch top speakers in your niche. Study their pacing, storytelling, and audience engagement. Practice regularly and consider joining a group like Toastmasters.
Becoming a digital marketing speaker isn't about being the loudest voice in the room. It's about being the clearest, most helpful one. Start where you are and grow from there.
What do you need to be a digital marketing speaker
1. Deep Subject Matter Expertise
You must understand digital marketing beyond surface-level tactics. Whether it's SEO, PPC, email automation, or analytics, you should be able to explain complex concepts in simple terms. Audiences expect actionable insights, not fluff.
2. Strong Communication Skills
Being a speaker means being a communicator. You need to be clear, engaging, and adaptable to different audience types. Practice storytelling, use analogies, and work on your stage presence. Even virtual talks require charisma.
3. A Personal Brand
Your online presence matters. Build a strong LinkedIn profile, maintain a blog or YouTube channel, and showcase your thought leadership. A speaker page (like those on Talks.co) helps you stand out to event organizers.
4. Presentation Assets
You'll need a speaker reel or video clips, a professional headshot, a short and long bio, and a list of talk topics. These assets make it easy for hosts to say yes to you.
5. Connections with Hosts and Communities
Speaking opportunities often come through relationships. Platforms like Talks.co help connect speakers with event hosts. Join marketing communities, attend events, and offer value before asking for a slot.
6. Feedback Loop
You need to be open to feedback. Record your talks, review them, and ask for critiques. The best speakers are always improving.
In short, being a digital marketing speaker is about combining your expertise with a platform and a voice that resonates. It's not just what you know, but how you share it.
Do digital marketing speakers get paid
Paid vs. Unpaid Opportunities
- Paid Gigs: These are typically at conferences, corporate events, or industry summits. Experienced speakers can command fees ranging from $1,000 to $25,000+.
- Unpaid Gigs: Many virtual summits, podcasts, or community events offer exposure instead of cash. These can still be valuable for lead generation and credibility.
Factors That Influence Payment
- Experience Level: New speakers might start with free gigs to build a portfolio. Seasoned experts with a proven track record can negotiate higher fees.
- Audience Size and Type: Speaking to a room of 500 CMOs is more valuable (and often better paid) than a webinar with 30 small business owners.
- Event Budget: Tech conferences and corporate retreats usually have bigger budgets than nonprofit or community events.
Pros and Cons of Paid Speaking
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Direct income | Competitive market |
Builds authority | Travel/time commitment |
Networking opportunities | Not all events pay |
Bottom line: Yes, digital marketing speakers do get paid, but it's not always in cash. Sometimes the real value is in the doors it opens.
How do digital marketing speakers make money
1. Speaking Fees
This is the most obvious one. For in-person keynotes, fees can range from $1,000 to $25,000 depending on the speaker's profile. Virtual events typically pay less, but they're easier to scale.
2. Product or Service Promotion
Many speakers use their stage time to promote:
- Online courses
- Consulting services
- SaaS tools (often with affiliate links)
- Books or paid newsletters
For example, a speaker might give a talk on email automation and then offer a discount code for their course at the end.
3. Sponsorships and Brand Deals
Some speakers partner with brands to mention or demo tools during their talks. These deals can be lucrative, especially for those with large followings.
4. Lead Generation for Business
Speaking gigs often lead to:
- New consulting clients
- Agency contracts
- Coaching program signups
Even unpaid gigs can be profitable if they bring in high-ticket clients.
5. Hosting Paid Events or Summits
Some digital marketing speakers flip the model and become hosts. They run their own virtual summits or masterminds and charge for access. Talks.co can help connect them with other speakers to build these events.
6. Licensing Content
Speakers sometimes license their talks or training materials to companies or platforms. This creates passive income.
In short, speaking is just the tip of the iceberg. The real money often comes from what happens after the talk.
How much do digital marketing speakers make
Typical Fee Ranges
- Beginner Speakers: $0 to $1,500 per talk. Often unpaid or compensated with exposure, especially in virtual summits.
- Mid-Level Speakers: $1,500 to $5,000 per talk. These speakers have a solid portfolio and a niche following.
- Top-Tier Speakers: $5,000 to $25,000+ per talk. These are industry leaders or influencers with large audiences.
Annual Income Potential
Speaker Type | Talks/Year | Avg. Fee | Estimated Income |
---|---|---|---|
Beginner | 10 | $500 | $5,000 |
Mid-Level | 20 | $3,000 | $60,000 |
Top-Tier | 30 | $10,000 | $300,000 |
As mentioned in 'How do digital marketing speakers make money', many speakers also earn from courses, consulting, and sponsorships. These can double or triple their income.
Variables That Affect Earnings
- Geography: Speakers in the US or Western Europe tend to earn more than those in emerging markets.
- Industry Focus: Speaking to enterprise SaaS audiences pays more than local business groups.
- Platform: Talks.co and similar platforms can help speakers land more gigs, increasing income potential.
In short, a digital marketing speaker's income can range from a side hustle to a six-figure business, depending on how they position themselves.
How much do digital marketing speakers cost
1. Experience and Reputation
- New Speakers: $0 to $1,000. Often willing to speak for free to gain exposure.
- Established Experts: $1,000 to $5,000. These speakers have a track record and some media presence.
- Industry Leaders: $5,000 to $25,000+. Think Neil Patel or Rand Fishkin. These speakers bring big audiences and authority.
2. Event Type
- Virtual Summits: Typically lower cost, ranging from $0 to $3,000.
- Corporate Trainings: Higher cost, often $5,000 to $15,000 depending on customization.
- Keynotes at Conferences: Premium pricing, especially for large audiences.
3. Location and Logistics
- Travel, accommodation, and per diem may be additional costs for in-person events.
- Virtual events save on logistics but may still require a tech setup fee or rehearsal time.
4. Customization Level
- A plug-and-play talk costs less than a fully customized workshop.
- Some speakers charge extra for post-event consulting or follow-up sessions.
Sample Pricing Table
Speaker Type | Virtual Event | In-Person Event |
---|---|---|
Beginner | $0 - $500 | $500 - $1,500 |
Mid-Level | $1,000 - $3,000 | $3,000 - $7,000 |
Top-Tier | $5,000 - $10,000 | $10,000 - $25,000+ |
Who are the best digital marketing speakers ever
- Gary Vaynerchuk: Known for his high-energy delivery and no-fluff advice. Gary Vee has spoken at countless conferences worldwide.
- Ann Handley: A pioneer in content marketing and author of 'Everybody Writes'. Her talks are insightful and refreshingly practical.
- Rand Fishkin: Co-founder of Moz and SparkToro, Rand is a go-to speaker on SEO and audience intelligence.
- Neil Patel: A prolific marketer whose talks focus on data-driven growth strategies. He's spoken globally and runs a top agency.
- Jay Baer: Known for his humor and storytelling, Jay delivers talks on customer experience and digital trends.
- Mari Smith: Often called the 'Queen of Facebook', Mari's talks on social media marketing are packed with actionable insights.
- Brian Dean: Founder of Backlinko, Brian is an SEO expert whose tutorials and talks are widely respected.
- Larry Kim: Founder of WordStream and MobileMonkey, Larry's presentations are data-rich and focused on PPC and automation.
- Amy Porterfield: A top voice in digital course creation and list building, Amy's talks are especially popular among entrepreneurs.
These speakers have shaped the digital marketing landscape and continue to influence how businesses grow online.
Who are the best digital marketing speakers in the world
- Avinash Kaushik (India/USA): A digital analytics evangelist at Google, Avinash delivers deep, thought-provoking presentations on data-driven marketing.
- Bas van den Beld (Netherlands): An international speaker and founder of State of Digital. Bas brings a European perspective to content and strategy.
- Pam Moore (USA): Known as the 'Marketing Nut', Pam's talks on branding and social media are both strategic and high-energy.
- Fernando Angulo (Spain): Head of Communications at Semrush, Fernando is a frequent speaker at global SEO and digital marketing events.
- Lilach Bullock (UK): A top voice in content and influencer marketing, Lilach's presentations are especially popular in the UK and Europe.
- Michael Brenner (USA): Focused on content marketing and employee advocacy, Michael's talks are insightful and practical.
- Talia Wolf (Israel): A conversion optimization expert, Talia's talks on emotional targeting and UX are cutting-edge.
- Aleyda Solis (Spain): An international SEO consultant and speaker, Aleyda is known for her technical SEO expertise.
- Andrew Davis (USA): A former TV producer turned marketing speaker, Andrew's storytelling approach makes his talks unforgettable.
These digital marketing speakers are recognized not just for their knowledge, but for their ability to connect with audiences across cultures and industries.
Common myths about digital marketing speakers
1. Myth: Digital marketing speakers only talk about social media.
This one's common, especially among folks new to the space. While platforms like Instagram and TikTok are hot topics, digital marketing speakers cover a wide range of strategies: SEO, email funnels, conversion optimization, paid ads, analytics, and even AI-driven personalization. For example, Neil Patel often dives deep into SEO and data-driven growth, not just social platforms.
2. Myth: You need to be famous to be a successful speaker.
Not true. While big names like Gary Vaynerchuk or Rand Fishkin draw crowds, many digital marketing speakers build thriving careers by serving niche audiences. Think of someone like Talia Wolf, who specializes in conversion optimization. She's not a household name, but she's a go-to expert in her field.
3. Myth: Speaking is just about sharing your story.
Audiences today want more than inspiration. They want frameworks, data, and actionable takeaways. The best digital marketing speakers blend storytelling with strategy. They might share a campaign that failed, then walk through how they fixed it using A/B testing or retargeting.
4. Myth: You need a marketing degree or agency background.
Plenty of top speakers are self-taught or come from unexpected backgrounds. Some started as bloggers, others as eCommerce founders. What matters most is your ability to teach and connect, not your resume.
5. Myth: Speaking gigs are only for extroverts.
Nope. Many successful speakers are introverts who prepare deeply, rehearse well, and deliver value-packed sessions. Being a great speaker is more about clarity, confidence, and content than charisma.
So if you've been holding back because of one of these myths, it might be time to rethink what's really possible.
Case studies of successful digital marketing speakers
Take Ann Handley, for instance. She started as a journalist and transitioned into content marketing long before it was trendy. Her talks are packed with humor, storytelling, and practical advice. She doesn't just tell you to write better content-she shows you how, with examples that stick. Her book 'Everybody Writes' became a staple, and her speaking career grew from that credibility.
Then there's Fernando Angulo from Semrush. He built his reputation by speaking at SEO and PPC conferences globally. What makes his talks stand out? He brings fresh data from Semrush's massive dataset and translates it into actionable insights. Whether he's in Singapore or San Diego, his sessions are tailored to the local market, which makes him a favorite for international events.
Another example is Pam Moore, known as the Marketing Nutz. She blends corporate experience with personal branding expertise. Her sessions often focus on brand storytelling and ROI-driven social strategies. What's unique is how she connects with both small business owners and big enterprise teams. That versatility has landed her on stages across industries.
And let's not forget Larry Kim, founder of WordStream and MobileMonkey. He's known for quirky, high-energy presentations that break down complex PPC and chatbot strategies. He uses memes, live demos, and real campaign data to keep audiences engaged. His talks are often cited as the most memorable at marketing summits.
These stories show that whether you come from journalism, data science, corporate marketing, or entrepreneurship, there's room for your voice. The key is to own your niche, deliver value, and keep evolving with your audience.
Future trends for digital marketing speakers
First, expect more hybrid and virtual speaking opportunities. Even as in-person events return, organizers are keeping the digital component. This means speakers need to master both stage presence and webcam charisma. Tools like StreamYard and OBS are becoming essential for delivering polished virtual keynotes.
Second, AI is changing the game. Not just in marketing tactics, but in how speakers prepare and present. Imagine using ChatGPT to draft your outline, then feeding your slides into a tool like Beautiful.ai for design. But beyond prep, audiences now expect insights on how AI impacts their business. Speakers who can demystify tools like Midjourney or Jasper.ai will be in high demand.
Third, there's a growing appetite for localized content. Global events want speakers who understand regional nuances-what works in Tokyo might flop in Toronto. Digital marketing speakers who can tailor examples and strategies to different markets will have a competitive edge.
Here are a few trends to watch:
- Micro-niche expertise. Generalists are out. Speakers who specialize in TikTok ads for eCommerce or email automation for SaaS will rise.
- Interactive formats. Panels, live audits, and Q&A-driven sessions are gaining traction over traditional keynotes.
- Data-backed storytelling. Audiences want more than opinions. Speakers who bring fresh research or case studies will stand out.
- Ethical marketing. With privacy concerns and algorithm fatigue, ethical and sustainable marketing practices are becoming hot topics.
In short, the future belongs to speakers who are agile, informed, and audience-first. Whether you're just starting or scaling up, staying ahead of these trends will keep your content relevant and your calendar full.
Tools and resources for aspiring digital marketing speakers
1. Talks.co. A smart platform that connects event organizers with expert speakers. Great for finding podcast guest spots or virtual summits. Tip: Build a compelling profile with a short video intro and clear topic titles.
2. SpeakerHub. A global directory for speakers across industries. You can list your speaking topics, upload videos, and get discovered by event planners. Bonus: They offer a free speaker profile and paid promotion options.
3. Canva. Not just for social media graphics. Use it to design sleek slide decks, speaker one-pagers, and promo materials. Tip: Stick to one brand color palette to stay consistent across events.
4. Notion. Organize your speaking topics, pitch templates, event contacts, and feedback in one place. Create a 'Speaker HQ' dashboard to keep everything streamlined.
5. Loom. Record short video pitches or speaker reels. Event organizers love seeing a sample of your delivery style. Keep it under 2 minutes and highlight your key takeaways.
6. Calendly. Make it easy for podcast hosts or event managers to book a call with you. Set up a custom link with your availability and integrate it with Zoom.
7. Slidebean. If design isn't your thing, this tool helps you build professional-looking presentations fast. Great for pitch decks or conference slides.
8. LinkedIn. Still one of the best places to showcase your expertise. Post short video clips from your talks, write thought-leadership posts, and engage with event organizers in your niche.
These tools aren't just about looking polished-they're about making it easier for people to say yes to you. Combine them with a clear message and consistent outreach, and you'll be on more stages in no time.